SME Times News Bureau | 07 May, 2020
Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways
and MSMEs Nitin Gadkari Thursday held meeting via video conferencing with the
members of SIAM Institute on impact of COVID-19 on auto sector.
During this interaction, members expressed
concerns regarding various challenges being faced by industry amid COVID-19
pandemic along with few suggestions and requested support from the government
to keep the sector afloat.
Gadkari suggested to focus on enhancing liquidity
in business, as ups and downs are common. He added that one need to plan for
bad times while working for growth.
Gadkari also said that industry should focus more
on innovation, technology and research skill to become competitive in global
market.
He informed that he has set a target of constructing
roads worth Rs 15 lakh crore in the next two years. He said, his ministry is
working overtime to clear all arbitration cases with concessionaires.
Gadkari responded to the questions from
representatives and assured all possible help from the government. He informed
that he would take up the issues at the appropriate level in the govt and other
departments.
The Minister informed that he has directed the
ministry officials to finalise the auto scrapping policy quickly, and said, it
will go a long way in cost reduction.
He also suggested exploring cheaper credits
including foreign capital for enhancing liquidity in the automobile
manufacturing sector.
On the question of BS4 vehicles, he said, the
govvernment is bound by SC verdict on the same. However, on industry
suggestion, he will get the matter examined afresh.
Regarding relaxations sought on other
regulations, Gadkari stated that he will endeavour to provide relief wherever
possible where industry is seeking extension of time.